Radiation Therapy for Cervical Cancer

Radiation therapy uses high-energy x-rays or other types of radiation to kill cancer cells. Radiation can be given internally or externally, depending on the stage of the cancer.

• Internal radiation therapy (brachytherapy) - This technique uses a small pellet of radioactive material placed directly in the vagina near the tumor or in the tumor using thin needles. The radioactive material is left in place while you stay in the hospital for 1 to 3 days. This process might be repeated. This treatment is also known as interstitial radiation therapy.
• External beam radiation therapy (EBRT) - Radiation from outside the body is focused on the cancer. Most people are treated with EBRT 5 days a week for 5 to 7 weeks as an outpatient. This schedule helps protect healthy cells and tissues by spreading out the total dose of radiation.

This content has been reviewed and approved by Myo Thant, MD.